MONTERREY, MEXICO — Mexican food processor Sigma Alimentos recently announced it would purchase a meat processing facility in Mount Pleasant, Iowa.

West Liberty Foods planned to close its Mount Pleasant plant by May 2023, eliminating 350 jobs. However, based on reports, Sigma is the buyer of that plant, however the companies have not confirmed the deal.

Sigma, a multinational company said that it acquired a plant for $12.4 million. The plant will process lunch meat from Sigma subsidiary Bar-S Foods and products under the FUD brand, which will be distributed nationwide.

“This investment is part of our ongoing efforts to expand capacity in the region to better serve customers and consumers, as well as to continue delivering value to all stakeholders,” said Jesus Lobo, chief executive officer for Sigma US. “We look forward to creating strong ties with the local community through our first facility in Iowa.”

Sigma currently operates in 18 countries throughout North and South America along with Europe. The company operates 65 total plants and 183 distribution centers and produces packaged meats, cheese, yogurts, plant-based and other refrigerated and frozen foods.